Court donates confiscated drug money to Ursuline Creche

Magistrate Gabriella Vella made the unusual pronouncement after 19-year-old Somali man Abdi Ali Mahammed was arraigned under arrest before her and charged with trafficking seven grams of cannabis two days ago. 

A court has ordered the donation of the proceeds of the sale of cannabis resin to the Ursuline Crèche in Sliema.

Magistrate Gabriella Vella made the unusual pronouncement after 19-year-old Somali man Abdi Ali Mahammed was arraigned under arrest before her and charged with trafficking seven grams of cannabis two days ago. 

Inspector Jonathan Ransley told the court how the man had sold the drugs for €140 but had spent €40 of the sum before he was arrested.

Mahammed admitted to the charges, after initially pleading not guilty and changing his mind.

The court took into account the fact that the crime was aggravated being committed near places frequented by young people, as well as the fact that the accused had collaborated with the police and indicated an accomplice.

The court imposed a nine-month custodial sentence and fined the man €600. 

Lawyer Yanika Bugeja assisted the accused as legal aid.